Hutcheon targets Tartan Tour defence

Tartan Tour No. 1 Greig Hutcheon will be among the favourites when the 36 Hole Challenge Series Tournament gets the Scottish season underway.

The Spey Valley tournament from April 30-May 1 is the first of nine that comprise the Order of Merit with the five Challenge Series events spread throughout the summer.

The series is also unique in offering low handicap amateurs the chance to compete against seasoned professionals.

Hutcheon, the winner of the 2012 Scottish OOM and the leading player across the Challenge Series last year heads the list of entries with reigning Scottish PGA Champion Graham Fox, who did not play at Spey Valley last year due to the imminent birth of his first son, looking to build upon his Gleneagles success.

Current Glenmuir PGA champion Gareth Wright (West Linton) is another who should do well around the Aviemore course.

Also in the field are former European Tour winners Jonathan Lomas, Stephen McAllister and Andrew Oldcorn.

Ross Kellett and 2012 Scottish Alliance Champion John Henry, whose brother Scott eventually triumphed in the 2012 play-off are amongst those non-PGA professionals due to compete, although Kellett’s participation may depend upon whether or not he gains entry to next week’s Challenge Tour event.

Another face familiar to the Scottish scene will also be treading the fairways next week; Colin Gillies the two-time Scottish PGA Champion who retired at the end of 2011 will be making a return to competitive action after playing only Invitational events in 2012.

Brian Mair, Secretary of the PGA in Scotland commented: “Spey Valley kicks off one of the most exciting periods in Scottish golf history.

“The eyes of the golfing world are on Scotland on the lead up to Ryder Cup 2014.

“The challenge is to embrace this unique opportunity to ensure the legacy will benefit all involved in Scottish golf for years to come.

“Sponsors, and potential sponsors, will have the benefit of aligning their businesses to a truly world–class product – and the PGA in Scotland are committed and determined to play our part.

“When Fraser Cromarty, Ross Harrower and Graham Fox tee up at 8am on Tuesday they will be leading the way for Scottish Professional golf not just for the tournament or the season but for the next chapter in our history.”